Sports History Network

Yesterday's Sports is part of the Sports History Network - The Headquarters For Sports Yesteryear.

YESTERDAY'S SPORTS HOME PAGE

EPISODE SUMMARY

Mark and Dave sit down with fellow Sports History Network member, Joe Santos, to discuss his recent mini-series titled THE PATRIOTS: FROM BOSTON TO FOXBORO.

It’s fascinating to look back at the early days of the New England Patriots, a team that transformed from a struggling franchise to a powerhouse in the NFL. You're in for a ride as there's plenty of unbelievable stories packed into this 2-part episode series.

YESTERDAY'S SPORTS BACKGROUND

Host Mark Morthier grew up in New Jersey just across the river from New York City during the 1970s, a great time for sports in the area. He relives great moments from this time and beyond, focusing on football, baseball, basketball, and boxing. You may even see a little Olympic Weightlifting in the mix, as Mark competed for eight years. See Mark's book below.

No Nonsense, Old School Weight Training: A Guide For People With Limited Time

Running Wild: (Growing Up In The 1970s)

This Day In Sports History is part of the Sports History Network - The Headquarters For Your Favorite Sport's Yesteryear.

EPISODE SUMMARY

In 1988, Pittsburgh Steelers owner Art Rooney, Sr. died at the age of 87.

In 1889, players for the Brooklyn Bridegrooms and the Cincinnati Reds were arrested during the fourth inning of their game.

In 1875, 27-year old Matthew Webb became the first person to swim the English Channel.

The episode embarks on an exploration of the intricate evolution of rule enforcement within the realm of football, elucidating the historical transition from rudimentary punitive measures to the sophisticated system of penalties we observe today. We delve into the nascent days of the sport, characterized by mass formations and tumultuous collisions, where rules were often regarded as mere suggestions rather than stringent regulations. Our discussion highlights the pivotal shift in 1880, which introduced a necessity for precision in the game, ultimately leading to the implementation of graduated penalties in response to the growing concerns about safety and fairness. We also engage with esteemed historian Timothy P. Brown, who provides valuable insights into how football's penalties have evolved over time, reflecting a broader understanding of the nature of fouls and their corresponding consequences. This episode serves to illuminate the historical context behind contemporary officiating practices and the ongoing significance of rules in maintaining the integrity of the game.

The conversation is based on Tim's recent article titled: The Origins of Football’s Distance Penalties

⏰ Timecodes ⏰

00:07 The Evolution of Football Rules

00:18 The Evolution of Football's Distance Penalties

08:24 The Evolution of Football Penalties

09:50 Evolution of Officiating in Sports

11:47 Exploring Football's Evolution

Do you want more football history? Grab a copy of our Award-Winning book, "The World's Greatest Pro Gridiron Team: The 1903 Franklin All-Stars" at https://amzn.to/4rG6uVe

Don't forget to check out and subscribe to the Pigskin Dispatch YouTube channel for additional content and the regular Football History Minute Shorts.

Miss our football by the day of the year podcasts, well, don't, because they can still be found at the Pigskin Dispatch website.

Do you want more football history? Test your Gridiron Knowledge, we feed you Daily with our new FREE activity, The Pigskin Trivia Drive.

Grab a copy of our latest book, "Marooned," on the 1925 Pottsville Maroons NFL franchise saga.

*OR* Grab a copy of our book on Western Pennsylvania football history, "World's Greatest Gridiron Team" on the 1903 Franklin All-Stars

Drop us a line at PigskinDispatch@gmail .com and check out and subscribe to the Pigskin Dispatch YouTube channel.

Contact us directly at [email protected]

Miss our football by the day of the year podcasts, well, don't because they can still be found at the Pigskin Dispatch website.

The evolution of rule enforcement within American football is a topic rich with historical significance and complexity. In this discussion, we delve into the nascent days of the gridiron, a time characterized by mass formations and brutal collisions, when the enforcement of rules was often merely a suggestion rather than a mandate. The conversation unfolds with a retrospective examination of how penalties were originally administered, highlighting the transition from a rudimentary system of disqualification and loss of possession to a more structured and graduated system of yardage penalties. The insights provided by our esteemed guest, Timothy P. Brown, illuminate the multifaceted nature of this evolution, detailing the influences of early collegiate football and the formative changes brought about in the latter part of the 19th century. As we explore the historical context, a narrative emerges that not only captures the essence of the rule changes but also reflects the broader societal attitudes toward violence and safety in sports, thus providing a profound understanding of how the game has adapted to the demands of time and culture.

Gridiron America is part of the Sports History Network - The Headquarters For Sports Yesteryear.

EPISODE SUMMARY

For week 12 and heading into week 13 of the CFL season we are on the winless watch for the Ottawa Redblacks as they continue to figure out new ways to lose both games and front office personnel. We review the week that was in the CFL, look ahead, and also ponder when the Montreal might lose their next game. Plus we talk some college and NFL as we look toward the start of the season in America.

GRIDIRON AMERICA BACKGROUND

Gridiron America (formerly, the From the 55 Yardline podcast), is anchored by former sports executive David Cieslinski, former international professional football player Mike Tackett, and football nerd Greg St. James.

All three are avid armchair sports historians and sports simulation enthusiasts, who, despite the vastness of geography, have found a way to leverage technology to help keep the games they love truly alive, both on the screen or tabletop.

Gridiron America Radio is dedicated to both current and historical American football talk, including the “what if” questions that all sports fans ask and try to answer with the help of statistics, math and computer modeling provided by SportsMaster Simulation Games www.SportsMaster-Simulation.games. In addition to the gridiron game, the team will on occasion look at other sports through the same eyes of that of grown men who still remember their childhood and the thrill of rolling the dice or picking up a joystick.

The show was previously co-hosted by retired sports journalist Scott Adamson, whose sports writing can be found at www.Adamsonmedia.com.

David, Mike and Greg, can be contacted directly via the podcast’s website at www.GridironAmerica.net, as well as:

On X at https://x.com/GridironAMRadio

On Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/GridironAmerica/

On Threads at https://www.threads.com/@gridironamerica

On Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/gridironamerica

This Day In Sports History is part of the Sports History Network - The Headquarters For Your Favorite Sport's Yesteryear.

EPISODE SUMMARY

In 1919, Cleveland pitcher Ray Caldwell was struck by lightning during a game.

In 1989, Pete Rose was banned from baseball for life by MLB Commissioner Bart Giamatti.

In 1983, Baltimore pitcher Tippy Martinez picked off all three batters in an inning.

In 1986, golfer David Feherty won the Scottish Open trophy and quickly lost it.

This podcast episode delves into our preseason predictions for the National Football League (NFL) teams, providing insights on how we envision their performances in the upcoming season. We engage in an analytical discourse regarding the power rankings of the National Football Conference (NFC), emphasizing our assessments of each team’s potential based on recent developments and historical contexts. Our dialogue incorporates a comprehensive evaluation of team rosters, coaching strategies, and previous records, leading to informed speculations about the contenders for playoff positions. Notably, we share contrasting opinions on various teams, illustrating the unpredictability of the league and the factors that may influence outcomes. Ultimately, our discussion aims to enlighten listeners about the intricate dynamics of the NFL as we prepare for an exhilarating season ahead.

Our regular guest co-host, Ed Kleese, brings his knowledge and analysis to the table in our friendly competition to predict the 2026 NFC standings/power rankings.

Don't forget to check out and subscribe to the Pigskin Dispatch YouTube channel for additional content and the regular Football History Minute Shorts.

Miss our football by the day of the year podcasts, well, don't, because they can still be found at the Pigskin Dispatch website.

Do you want more football history? Test your Gridiron Knowledge, we feed you Daily with our new FREE activity, The Pigskin Trivia Drive.

Grab a copy of our latest book, "Marooned," on the 1925 Pottsville Maroons NFL franchise saga.

*OR* Grab a copy of our book on Western Pennsylvania football history, "World's Greatest Gridiron Team" on the 1903 Franklin All-Stars

Drop us a line at PigskinDispatch@gmail .com and check out and subscribe to the Pigskin Dispatch YouTube channel.

Contact us directly at [email protected]

Miss our football by the day of the year podcasts, well, don't because they can still be found at the Pigskin Dispatch website.

NDN All-Stars is part of the Sports History Network - The Headquarters For Sports Yesteryear.

EPISODE SUMMARY

This week in NDN All-Stars history, a nineteen-year-old catcher steps onto a Major League Baseball field for the very first time — beginning a career that will eventually include ten Gold Gloves, fourteen All-Star selections, two Most Valuable Player Awards, two World Series championships, and a place in Cooperstown.

That young catcher is Choctaw legend Johnny Bench.

But there’s much more to discover from August 23 through August 29.

Mandan, Hidatsa, and Arikara boxing great Virgil Hill scores a first-round TKO. Cherokee heavyweight Jack Dempsey earns a fifth-round stoppage. Inupiaq basketball star Alissa Pili signs with the Los Angeles Sparks for the remainder of the WNBA season. Iroquois great Henry Armstrong adds more victories to his remarkable boxing career — and steps into the ring against Sugar Ray Robinson.

Mohawk race car driver Dexter Stacey carries an Every Child Matters paint scheme honoring the survivors and victims of Indigenous residential schools. Navajo and San Felipe soccer player Madison Hammond scores the first NWSL goal of her career — and it proves to be the match-winner against her former club. Cherokee pitcher Early Wynn throws a one-hit shutout. Salish and Kootenai boxing pioneer Marvin Camel earns another victory. And Cherokee slugger Bob Johnson drives in six runs in a single inning.

Travel back with NDN All-Stars as we bring great Native athletes from the past and present back into the spotlight for new generations.

This episode covers August 23 through August 29.

SUPPORT NDN ALL-STARS

If you enjoy the content here and would like to help support our mission of celebrating great Native athletes of the past and present, please take a look at our NDN All-Stars Shop. Proceeds from every purchase help us continue to retell these stories. Also, if you would like to donate to this effort, please visit our Patreon page.

NDN ALL-STARS BACKGROUND

Hey there—I'm Bill Black, and welcome to the NDN All-Stars Podcast. If this is your first time hearing about us, let me tell you what we’re all about.

This podcast is where Native sports history comes alive. Each episode shines a spotlight on the great Native American athletes you should know—past and present. From Hall of Famers to hometown heroes, we tell the stories of Native athletes who made their mark—on the field, on the court, and in history.

We keep it real. No sugar-coating. No museum talk. Just straight-up stories told with pride and purpose—because representation matters, and these All-Stars deserve to be remembered right.

Some episodes are deep dives into a single athlete’s life. Others bring on guests—historians, authors, even the athletes themselves—who help us connect the dots between culture, identity, and achievement.

Whether you’re Native, a sports fan, a history buff, or just curious—this podcast will give you a new perspective on what greatness really looks like.

So if you're ready to learn, laugh, and maybe even get a little fired up—hit that follow button and join the team.

You can find more stories, merch, and updates at NDNAllStars.com. And be sure to follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube—just search for NDN All-Stars and you’ll find us.

NDN All-Stars – Promoting Great Native Athletes – Past & Present!

Mentioned in this episode:

Sports History Network Theme Song

This theme song was produced by Ron "Tyke" Oliver of Music Meets Sportz

This Day In Sports History is part of the Sports History Network - The Headquarters For Your Favorite Sport's Yesteryear.

EPISODE SUMMARY

In 1988, Mike Tyson and Mitch Green got into a street fight outside the Harlem clothing store Dapper Dans.

In 1936, 17-year old Bob Feller used a blazing fastball to strike out 15 and win his first major league game with a 4-1 win over the St. Louis Browns.

In 1982, Gaylord Perry was ejected from a game for the first and only time for throwing a doctored baseball.

in 1989, Montreal Expo mascot Youppie became the first mascot ejected from a major league baseball game.

This Day In Sports History is part of the Sports History Network - The Headquarters For Your Favorite Sport's Yesteryear.

EPISODE SUMMARY

In 1965, San Francisco pitcher Juan Marichal and LA Dodger catcher John Roseboro got into a bat-swinging, bench-clearing brawl.

In 1973, the US Men's basketball team and the Cuban National team got into a brawl in the World University Games.

In 2007, the Texas Rangers scored 30 runs against Baltimore, setting the record for most in an MLB game.

The genesis of the American Football League (AFL) is a pivotal moment in the annals of sports history, marked by a decisive vote cast by six men on August 22, 1959, in Dallas, Texas. This momentous decision catalyzed a monumental shift in professional football, challenging the entrenched monopoly of the National Football League (NFL) and paving the way for an evolution in the sport. The AFL emerged not merely as an alternative league but as a formidable competitor, intent on reshaping the landscape of American football. The founders, driven by a collective vision, sought to create a league that embraced innovation, inclusivity, and a more dynamic style of play, ultimately culminating in the iconic Super Bowl. As we delve into this rich narrative, we explore the aspirations and strategies that defined the AFL's establishment and its indelible impact on the future of American sports.

Don't forget to check out and subscribe to the Pigskin Dispatch YouTube channel for additional content and the regular Football History Minute Shorts.

Miss our football by the day of the year podcasts, well, don't, because they can still be found at the Pigskin Dispatch website.

Do you want more football history? Test your Gridiron Knowledge, we feed you Daily with our new FREE activity, The Pigskin Trivia Drive.

Grab a copy of our latest book, "Marooned," on the 1925 Pottsville Maroons NFL franchise saga.

*OR* Grab a copy of our book on Western Pennsylvania football history, "World's Greatest Gridiron Team" on the 1903 Franklin All-Stars

Drop us a line at PigskinDispatch@gmail .com and check out and subscribe to the Pigskin Dispatch YouTube channel.

Contact us directly at [email protected]

Miss our football by the day of the year podcasts, well, don't because they can still be found at the Pigskin Dispatch website.

The formation of the American Football League on August 22, 1959, represents a watershed moment in the chronicles of American sports, signifying the audacity and vision of six men who dared to defy the entrenched dominance of the National Football League. At that time, the NFL was a conservative establishment, comprising twelve teams largely concentrated in the Midwest and Northeast, and exhibiting a reluctance to embrace expansion despite the evident public appetite for professional football, as illustrated by the monumental 1958 championship game that drew an astounding 45 million viewers. The assembly in Dallas was a response to the NFL's obstinate refusal to acknowledge the burgeoning interest from cities such as Dallas and Houston, which were ripe with potential yet denied opportunities for professional representation. The AFL's inception was not merely a challenge to the status quo; it was an imperative to reshape the football landscape, addressing the glaring inequities and expanding the reach of the sport. At the center of this revolutionary endeavor was Lamar Hunt, a young oil heir who epitomized the spirit of innovation and determination. While his initial attempts to join the NFL were met with rejection, Hunt's resolve only intensified, leading him to connect with other similarly disenfranchised individuals who shared his vision for a more inclusive and competitive league. The meeting in Dallas was marked by two consequential decisions: the official naming of the league as the American Football League and the establishment of a constitution that would govern its operations. This intentional choice of nomenclature was designed to assert the AFL's identity as a legitimate competitor, rather than a mere adjunct to the NFL. The implications of their actions extended far beyond the confines of that hotel room; they were laying the groundwork for a rivalry that would not only invigorate professional football but would also lead to innovations that would become hallmarks of the sport. The ensuing rivalry between the AFL and NFL catalyzed a transformation within professional football, fostering a spirit of competition that invigorated the game. The AFL distinguished itself through its embrace of a more exciting and dynamic style of play, characterized by an emphasis on the forward pass and an egalitarian approach to revenue sharing, which ensured that all franchises, regardless of market size, could compete on a level playing field. This competition ultimately reached a crescendo with the merger of the two leagues in 1966, culminating in the establishment of the Super Bowl, an event that has since evolved into a cultural phenomenon. The legacy of the American Football League is indelibly etched into the fabric of American sports, a testament to the vision of those six men who, in defiance of a closed system, forged a new path that has shaped the future of professional football.